Charleston City Council advances amendments to protest permit ordinance

Charleston City Council has moved forward with amendments to the First Amendment Demonstration Ordinance, a law requiring permits for protests with more than 25 people, according to ABC News 4 WCIV.

The original ordinance, enacted in July 2021, mandates that organizers of large gatherings apply for permits at least three days in advance, with exemptions for spontaneous protests within 48 hours of major events. The police department has authority to approve or deny permits.

The proposed amendments, which passed the first reading at the November 10 council meeting, keep the core requirements intact but aim to clarify the city's regulatory authority over public demonstrations, as reported by The Post and Courier.

Key changes include establishing a quicker appeals process for denied permits, with the Public Safety Committee reviewing appeals promptly, and creating a waiver option for special events.

Local activist groups have criticized the ordinance in the past for infringing on constitutional rights, with about 80 people marching in downtown Charleston recently to mark five years since its enactment, ABC News 4 WCIV noted.

Despite the amendments, the ordinance continues to require permits for large protests, maintaining the balance between public safety and free speech as the city refines its approach.